How to Perform Your Fall Routine Roof Inspection

Those clear blue autumn skies are here and there’s a nip in the air. Outdoor chores and yard work are calling. While you’re out in the yard tidying up the garden and putting the hoses away, make sure to add roof inspection to your fall to-do list.

You likely see your roof every day, but you don’t really look at it. It’s easy for small issues needing routine maintenance to become extensive issues causing severe damage. Ideally, you should be checking on the health of your roof twice a year. Fall, therefore, is a great time for your routine roof check.

Related Article: Fall is Time for a Home Maintenance Check-Up

How to Perform a Routine Roof Check

Combining your roof inspection with your gutter cleaning routine is a great way to simplify your outdoor maintenance chores. While you’re clearing out your gutters, take some time to give the roof a once-over. If you didn’t combine these chores, then there are other ways to check for roof damage.

A roof inspection can be a dangerous task, so it’s best to do most of the check from the ground level or from within your home. Not only will staying off the roof lower your risk of injury, but it will also save your roof from any further damage. If you must get on the roof, make sure to get a spotter to help you.

To perform a routine roof check safely and effectively, follow these tips:

1. If you’ve got a multi-story house, you might be able to see most of your first-floor roof from within your home by looking out the windows. Lift up the screens so you can poke your head out, but please do not hang out of the windows!
2. Bring your binoculars outside and take a look from a distance. Take note of any areas that might present an issue. While you’re looking through the binoculars, make sure to always stay aware of your surroundings and refrain from moving or walking around.
3. If you own a drone, or always wanted one, now’s your chance to prove that it was a good investment. If your drone has a good camera and a skilled pilot, you should be able to do a very thorough roof inspection.

Signs of Roof Damage

During your inspection, there are tell-tale signs of roof damage for which you should be searching. Whether you are using a drone, binoculars, or the naked eye, call a professional right away if you notice any of these issues:

• Warped, broken, cracked, or misplaced shingles – Even if an asphalt shingle is only showing areas of patchiness or granule loss, you’ll need a professional to bring replacements.
• Patches of moss and lichen – While organic growth can look charming, it is likely a sign that the layer underneath the roofing material is decaying. On the other hand, surface staining caused by black algae is typically a cosmetic issue.
• Rust, damage, and failing caulk on the flashing – This thin metal is used to keep water out of areas where the roof meets your walls, chimneys, or valleys.
• Damage to any roof additions and their seals, including skylights, vent stacks, chimneys, and all of their rubber collars and seals – Anything that comes through the roof should be inspected closely, as it poses a threat to the roof if any damage occurs.

The goal is to inspect your roof frequently and thoroughly. By sticking to this routine, you’ll be able to catch problems when they are small and inexpensive.

Related Article: Roof Replacement: What to Know Before You Begin

Keep Your Home Safe with a Routine Roof Inspection

Spring cleaning isn’t often forgotten, but the routine maintenance you perform for the exterior of your property during the fall is just as important. Adding a routine roof inspection to your chore list will help save you from the stress and costly repairs that come with extensive roof damage.

At Advance Inc., we’re committed to educating homeowners about the importance of routine maintenance and serving our community when damage occurs. If you find any areas of concern during your routine roof inspection, contact us for a free estimate.